NSW Severe Weather Warning: Damaging Winds

For people in parts of Hunter, Metropolitan, Illawarra, Snowy Mountains and Australian Capital Territory Forecast Districts.

Issued at 2:37 pm Wednesday, 14 February 2018.

Weather Situation: A cold front is bringing vigorous westerly winds to New South Wales today, with a gusty southerly change expected to move up the southern and central coast this afternoon and evening.

DAMAGING WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h are possible about higher parts of the Snowy Mountains and ACT this afternoon, in a vigorous westerly airstream. Above 1900 metres, winds could average 80 to 90 km/h with peak gusts above 120 km/h. Winds in this area are expected to ease this evening.

DAMAGING WINDS, averaging 60 to 70 km/h with peak gusts in excess of 90 km/h are also possible along the coastal fringe of the Illawarra late this afternoon, extending to the coastal fringe of Sydney and the Hunter this evening as a southerly wind change moves north along the coast. Winds in this area are expected to gradually ease overnight.

Locations which may be affected include Gosford, Sydney, Kiama, Wollongong, Thredbo, Cabramurra and Selwyn.

Cabramurra AWS has recorded multiple gusts between 90-96 km/h between midday and 2pm.

Mt Ginini AWS recorded a 90 km/h wind gust at 2:15pm.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.
* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
* Keep at least 8 metres away from fallen power lines or objects that may be energised, such as fences.
* Report fallen power lines to either Ausgrid on 131 388, or Endeavour Energy on 131 003 or Essential Energy on 132 080, as shown on your power bill.
* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring your local SES Unit on 132 500.